Easy Beef And Noodles Recipe

When you need a quick, hearty, and family-friendly meal, this Easy Beef and Noodles recipe is perfect. With simple ingredients like ground beef, egg noodles, and a flavorful beef gravy, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste. This dish is ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile enough for those looking to customize and elevate it further with added veggies or different seasonings.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need a go-to meal for hectic days, it offers:

• Quick Preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Few Ingredients: Most of the items are kitchen staples, which means no need for an elaborate grocery list.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors of beef and noodles.
• Customizable: This basic recipe can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes—add veggies, extra seasonings, or even some cream for a rich twist.

Ingredients for Easy Beef and Noodles

Here’s a breakdown of the simple, yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 cups uncooked egg noodles: Egg noodles add a tender, comforting texture to the dish. You can use regular or whole wheat for added fiber.
• 1 pound lean ground beef: Lean ground beef (around 90%) gives a hearty flavor without excess grease.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the beef mixture.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: For a hint of tangy, umami flavor that enriches the beef.
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds a subtle, herby note.
• 1/4 cup flour: Used to thicken the gravy.
• 2 cups beef broth: Provides the base for the gravy and enhances the beefy flavor.
• Salt & pepper to taste: For seasoning and balance.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Medium pot for boiling noodles
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for chopping onion and garlic
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until they’re tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef and Onions

While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onions. Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté the mixture until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened, which should take about 8-10 minutes. If you’re not using lean beef, drain excess fat, but leave a little for flavor.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for about a minute to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Thicken the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—they add great flavor to the gravy!

5. Simmer the Beef Gravy

Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, add a little more beef broth to loosen it up.

6. Combine the Noodles and Beef Mixture

Once the gravy has thickened, toss the drained noodles into the skillet with the beef and gravy. Mix everything together until the noodles are well-coated in the savory sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

7. Serve

Serve the beef and noodles immediately while they’re hot and fresh. You can garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Make the Beef Gravy Perfectly

To achieve a rich, smooth gravy, make sure to stir the flour into the beef mixture well before adding the broth. This prevents lumps and ensures an even consistency. Slowly pour in the broth while constantly stirring—this gradual process helps the flour dissolve and thicken the sauce without clumps.

Pro Tip:

If you find the gravy too thick after simmering, just add a splash of water or extra beef broth to thin it out to your liking.

Customization Options

• Add Vegetables: You can easily incorporate extra nutrition by adding veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Sauté them with the onions for added flavor.
• Spice It Up: Want more heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy Twist: For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving. This gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture.
• Use a Different Protein: Ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well if you want a lighter or vegetarian version of this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Noodles: Egg noodles cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid them becoming mushy. Drain them as soon as they’re al dente.
2. Not Thickening the Gravy: Make sure to cook the flour for a full minute before adding the broth, or your gravy may taste raw or have a thin consistency.
3. Using Too Much Beef Fat: If your ground beef isn’t lean, be sure to drain excess fat. Leaving too much will result in a greasy sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Beef and Noodles

For a balanced meal, serve this dish with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy.

Presentation Tip: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a bright, fresh contrast to the hearty noodles and beef.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave and add a splash of beef broth or water to revive the gravy and prevent the noodles from drying out.

Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well as the noodles may become mushy when thawed.

FAQ

Can I freeze Beef and Noodles? This recipe isn’t ideal for freezing since egg noodles tend to get too soft when reheated after freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Can I use a different type of noodle? Yes! You can swap egg noodles for other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce? You can replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a quick, comforting meal. With its simple preparation and rich flavor, it’s a dish your whole family will love. Give it a try, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite add-ins! If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes.

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